How Are Electromagnets Made?

Select a Core

The core of the electromagnet must be made of a magnetic substance, such as iron, cobalt or nickel. An iron or iron-containing steel nail can be used to make a small electromagnet.

Wrap Insulated Wire Around the Core

A single strand of insulated wire should next be wrapped around the core as many times as possible in a helical fashion. The more times the wire goes around the core, the stronger the electromagnet will be.
The wire must be insulated so electrical current will travel through the wire only and not the core.

Run Electric Current Through the Wire

Connect the ends of the wire to a source of electric current, such as a battery. Be careful not to run too much current through the wire, as additional current can make the wire exceedingly hot.

References

• Kenyon College
• Jefferson Lab
• School for Champions